The bowling season at Ottery St Mary started with two away fixtures and some great entertainment on the greens already.

Ottery made the short trip to Exmouth to play against Phear Park, another side just getting their campaign underway. Fortunately, Ottery had some reserve players, as, due to a last-minute withdrawal, the club had to supply Phear Park with two players.

However, the result was never in doubt, as Ottery won by two rinks to one with one rink drawn, the scores being 69 shots to 54. Unusually, both winning teams had the same points difference, so it is impossible to identify the top team on this occasion.

The second away match needed a longer trip, this time to Tiverton West End Bowling Club. Not only did they give us a warm welcome when we arrived, but the day itself proved to be exceptionally warm as well, to the extent that for the most part, the players discarded their fleeces.

There is a saying in bowling circles that says ‘Everything changes after tea’. This proved to be the case in this match. as Ottery went into tea with the scores fairly even, but after tea, Tiverton moved into a substantial lead, winning the match by 3 rinks to 1 with one rink drawn.

The total of shots scored amounted to 78 for Tiverton against 66 for Ottery. The top team and our only winning team was ably led by Chris Hawke, assisted by Eileen Burston and Richard Bland.

Now that the season has started, I would like to mention that club night is every Friday night from 6pm until whenever it gets dark, and anyone is welcome to come along to give the game a try.

Secondly, the club is holding an Open Day on Friday, May 6 from 2pm. This is for anyone who would like to try out this game on an experimental basis. Qualified coaches will be available to assist you and bowls will be provided, Simply bring yourself and a pair of flat shoes! A warm welcome will await you.